ATV Tips For Newbies

All-terrain vehicles are an awesome way to experience America’s terrific outdoors. But four-wheelers can be a handful for first-time riders. Here are some points that newbies need to keep in mind when hitting the backcountry.

Keep it Simple
Numerous novice riders gravitate towards souped-up makers with loads of alternatives. However that’s a mistake, states Justin Rath, president of Iowa’s Off-Highway Vehicle Association. When you’re discovering to ride, try to find an easy machine that’s easy to control which will not overpower you. Rath recommends new riders go for an ATV with an automatic transmission and an engine between 200cc and 400cc.

Stay Safe
There are a few key pieces of protective equipment that every rider should have, according to the ATV Safety Institute, a market association. The list: a quality motorcycle helmet, safety glasses, over-the-ankle boots, gloves, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt or coat. If you desire a lot more security, think about shin pads, a chest protector, and wrist, elbow and knee guards.

Practice, Practice, Practice
Before riders start scaling mountains and battle through tidal flat, they need to have a firm grasp of the principles. “Like anything, practice makes perfect,” states Rath. Newbies to the sport must practice on a level surface– an open field would be perfect– before graduating to single tracks, and after that more difficult paths, he adds. Lots of states require security courses for riders under a particular age, particularly if they’ll be riding on public land or crossing roadways, but they’re a great idea for operators of all ages.

File Your Paperwork
Guidelines differ from one state to another, but possibilities are you’ll need to register (and guarantee) your ATV similar to you would drive a car. You’ll likely also have to get a license and pay a fee before you can ride on popular public routes. Some of the federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service, provide annual passes that will help save many off-roaders money.

Keep Your ATV Safe
ATV theft is a common issue. However, there are a few simple things you can do to avoid criminals from swiping your precious four-wheeler. The most important point is to keep it out of sight. If you have a garage, consistently park your ATV inside and cover it with a nondescript tarpaulin. If you need to leave it outside, utilize a durable metal chain to tie your flight to something tough to avoid thieves from just rolling it away. Finally, if you’re taking your ATV on the roadway, constantly park the truck or the trailer carrying it next to a structure or utility pole so the tailgate can’t be opened.